Our services
Pain Management
Sunshine Coast Radiology offers specialised Integrated Pain Management which provides you with an innovative approach to the assessment, treatment and management of pain.
What is Integrated Pain Management?
Integrated Pain Management provides a new, innovative approach to the assessment, treatment and management of pain.
Through collaboration with leading Pain Specialists in the provision of pain assessment we can offer in-depth consultation services, high quality diagnostic imaging and image-guided pain management treatments. During our image-guided procedures, our highly trained Radiologists use image-guidance to deliver medication directly to source of the pain.
Image-guided pain management procedures are particularly effective if you are experiencing spinal pain, neck and back pain, persistent joint pain, soft tissue inflammation and pain in other areas.
What are the benefits of Integrated Pain Management?
Due to the innovative and collaborative methods used in Integrated Pain Management, you pain may be alleviated faster than other traditional methods and oral medications.
Our techniques can be used to diagnose the site of pain, while helping control pain to allow you to initiate physical therapy or exercise. Integrated Pain Management may delay or eliminate the need for surgical intervention.
Unlike surgical pain management techniques, there are no large incisions made, and infection rates are significantly lower in Integrated Pain Management.
Pain Management Procedures Offered
Sunshine Coast Radiology performs a variety of pain management procedures on a variety of body parts including back, hips, knees, shoulders, elbows, ankles, wrists and thumbs.
- CT-guided facet joint blocks
- CT-guided nerve root blocks
- CT-guided epidural injection
- Plural and peritoneal taps
- Intrathecal injections
- Fine needle aspirations
- And more
About Your Test
Before your appointment
You will need a referral from your doctor to make an appointment.
Upon receiving your referral, our Bookings Team will be able to help assist you in finding a time that works for you to have your test done.
There is no preparation needed and no after effects. You will be able to go about your day as normal once the test has been completed.
On the day
As there is no preparation required, all you need to do is arrive at the clinic at the time of your appointment.
Depending on the body part being examined, you may be required to wear a gown provided to you. We will request all jewellery and body piercings to be removed as they may impact the field of view.
The entire procedure takes approximately 15-20 minutes, however the actual scanning time is only 2-3 minutes.
After your appointment
After your scan you can go about your day as normal.
Your images will be looked over by our Radiologists and a secure report and copy of the images will be provided to your referring practitioner. We will also provide you with a printed copy to take with you to your next appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
At Sunshine Coast Radiology practices we use the newest digital equipment for our X-rays. This means you can be sure you are receiving the lowest amount of radiation possible.
The radiation levels used in Digital General X-ray are so low that there is little to no health effects.
Prior to your scan and to ensure optimal imaging, you may be asked to change into a gown. A change cubicle will be provided to ensure your privacy and you will be asked to bring your belongings will you, carry baskets are provided. You will be asked to place your belongings in a suitable location within the room for the duration of your scan. After your scan, you will be provided with a change cubicle to ensure your privacy. Please ensure you have all your belongings with you prior to leaving the department. If you accidentally leave anything behind, please contact our staff to advise and we will endeavour to locate your belongings and return them to you.
The entire procedure takes approximately 15-20 minutes to complete, although real scanning time is only 2-3 minutes.
Your images and report are provided through a secure online system to your doctor or healthcare provider. We will also provide you with a printed copy to bring to your next appointment.
Our friendly reception staff will advise you on the cost of your procedure at the time of your booking. If your exam is Medicare eligible, you will be bulk billed.
- You have tried a number of alternatives to relieve your pain without success.
- Have inflammatory pain, such as joint pain or muscular pain.
- You have found only limited relief from physiotherapy, massage or other methods.
- Are currently on a waiting list for surgical procedures, such as a knee or hip replacement.
- Have pain that does not seem to subside and would like a consultation.
